Principles of Arena Rigging
It is critical that the 21st-century rigger acquires the technical skills required to prevent damaged or overloaded equipment. In the worst cases the rigger with poor training is a threat to the safety of the show. Most professional riggers learn the physical skills they need on the job site using the time-tested methods of the master/apprentice relationship. However, the technical skills of the job are better taught in the classroom environment.
Day One
Wire Rope
Components
Types and strengths of steel
Construction
Aircraft cable
Nominal strengths
Abrasion vs. bending fatigue resistance
Wire Rope Slings
Parts of a sling
Efficiency of fittings
Forming Eyes
Clamps
Adjustable fittings
Swaged fittings
Flemish eyes
Nicopress Installation
Nicopress inspection
Working load limit
Design factor
Sling inspection
Hitches
Choker hitch
Basket hitch
D:d ratio
Shackles & STAC Chain
Types
Material
Strength
Correct use
Inspection
Force, Reaction & Load Distribution
Definitions
Simply supported span
Cantilever
Load application – PL
Load application – UDL
Force Distribution in Complex Structures
Indeterminate structures
Estimating UDL distribution
Estimating PL distribution
Day Two
Forces in Simple Bridles – Math Solution
Solve sample problem
Forces in Simple Bridles – Vector Solution
Solve sample problem
Advanced Bridles – Unequal Anchorage Height
Solve sample problem
Synthetic Slings
Material
Inspection
Use
Cautions
Cartesian Coordinate System
Origin
Axis
How to use
3-D coordinate system
Truss
Components
Tension, compression, shear
How trusses work
Truss loading
Load application
Characteristics of aluminum & steel
Hoists
Capacity
Electrical
Drive train
Precautions
Multiple hoist lifts
Day Three
Fall Protection
OSHA
ANSI
Hierarchy
Components
Anchorage
Connectors
Lanyards
Harnesses
Vertical lifelines
Retractable lifelines
Horizontal lifelines
Free fall distance
Deceleration distance
Minimum & maximum worker weights
Active vs. passive systems
Rescue
Philosophy
ANSI standard
Levels of rescue
Orthostatic incompetence
Shock Load Demonstration
Details
Language: English
Format: In-person
Length: Three days
Trainer
Chris Schmidt, IATSE Local 16
Location: Redwood City, CA
Travel: International
Certifications: ETCP Recognized Trainer
Chris has been a certified arena rigger with the Entertainment Technician Certification Program (ETCP) since its inception in 2005 and an ETCP “recognized trainer” since 2009. Chris has logged over 400 hours training riggers with companies, various labor unions and rigging organizations. As a member of the Entertainment Services and Technology Association (ESTA) rigging work group, Chris is active in the development of ANSI standards for the usage and service of equipment used in arena style rigging.